Sheridan Junior High School students have used their creative talents to advocate for Wyoming’s ecosystem issues. As part of a class led by Paul Gerberding, students are displaying wire sculptures, embossed metal, paintings and papier-mache works at the Sheridan County Fulmer Public Library, from May 22 to June 2, for the community to appreciate the creativity of these young minds. Though the artwork showcase is the product of collaborative efforts, not all students are unanimous in their opinions about it.
Sheridan Junior High School students are taking a stand to advocate for Wyoming’s natural ecosystems with their creative works. Through Paul Gerberding’s Arts Advocacy class, seventh and eighth grade students explore topics like environmental justice and bring their ideas to life through art such as wire sculptures, embossed metal, papier-mache, and paint. The artwork is currently being showcased at the Sheridan County Fulmer Public Library, offering the community a glimpse into the high caliber of creativity that these young minds possess. The exhibit opened May 22nd and will be on display until June 2nd.
Kent Sanner, a student in Gerberding’s class, expresses that working with others to share ideas has been the most enjoyable learning experience and is proud to have his art on display for all to view.
Aurora Rasmussen and Natalie Matheney, two of Sanner’s classmates, agree that the process of creating artwork and allowing it to be exhibited has been rewarding. Rasmussen feels proud of the class’ hard work and Matheney is reassured by the public’s appreciation of their efforts. “It’s really gratifying to see our pieces being appreciated and praised, especially after feeling unconfident about them in class,” said Matheney. By contrast, Sanner feels that her classmates are unappreciative of the work it takes to create a work of art.
Gerberding noted that the process of making artwork is often an introduction to topics discussed in other classes, allowing students to gain a more comprehensive understanding of their subjects. “It’s really inspiring to take what we learn and put it into practice,” said Rasmussen. “The process of creating art has connected what one learns in class to the real world.”
He was proud to recognize Sheridan County School District 2 for continuing to offer art education to its students, and expressed his belief that the arts have a positive impact on everyone, not just children. “I’m confident that art teachers across the country will agree with me when I say that I think art is as important as any other subject. It helps us stay creative and innovative, so I am an advocate for arts education.”
This creative class project offers an eye-opening look into the ambition and limitless possibilities of this group of young students. The efforts put forth by Paul Gerberding’s 7th and 8th grade arts class will not only inspire their peers but will encourage others across Wyoming to recognize how art has a potential to advocate for environmental causes and justice. Although each student approaches their artwork with different motivations and appreciations, they are unified in their effort of using art to celebrate nature and challenge the way people interact with their environment. Quite simply, this class project serves as reminder of the brilliance being cultivated right under our noses.
